Windows for home

lynda palsgrove 0 Reputation points
2026-09-17T21:25:58.8533333+00:00

My computer is locked up message I keep getting says to call microsoft. What is going on, I need help. Phone number of someone I can talk to

Windows for home | Other | Security and privacy
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  1. AI answer

    2026-09-17T21:26:14.5+00:00

    This is most likely a tech support scam, not a real Microsoft lock on the PC.

    What to do now:

    1. Do not call any phone number shown in the pop-up or message.
    2. Do not enter any username, password, or payment information.
    3. Try to close the browser or pop-up:
      • Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
      • Find the browser process such as Microsoft Edge.
      • Select it and choose End task.
    4. If that does not work, try Alt + F4 to close the browser window.
    5. If the screen still cannot be closed, restart the computer.
    6. If the browser asks to Restore tabs after reopening, choose No so the scam page does not reopen.

    Important facts:

    • Microsoft error and warning messages do not include phone numbers.
    • Microsoft does not make unsolicited phone calls to say there is a problem with a device.
    • If a pop-up says shutting down will cause data loss or demands a call, that is a common scam tactic.

    If help is still needed from Microsoft, use the official support entry points:

    • Get Help on the web
    • Get Help in Windows
    AI-generated content may be incorrect. Read our transparency notes for more information.

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  2. lynda palsgrove 0 Reputation points
    2026-09-17T21:29:37.5933333+00:00

    I can not get back on this computer

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  3. lynda palsgrove 0 Reputation points
    2026-09-17T21:31:23.86+00:00

    Help me get back on computer I can not do it.

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  4. EmilyS726 267.4K Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2026-09-17T21:59:29.9533333+00:00

    Can you please hold down Ctrl+Alt+Del, then launch Task Manager, and then end all browser items there to close it. That page is definitely scam, but as long as you didn't call the number and engage in any of the requested activities, your computer is not hacked. It is just a pop up page that can have some audio effect (sometimes) and display in full screen mode, so it appears the computer is locked.

    Scammers use various methods to trigger these pop-ups. Pop-ups are a form of online advertising. They are often integrated into websites or applications through ad services. Many websites use third-party advertising services to display ads. Sometimes, these ad services might inadvertently allow scam ads to be displayed. This does not mean the website itself is malicious, but it indicates a lack of stringent ad vetting.

    You can read more about this type of support scam here: https://support.microsoft.com/windows/protect-yourself-from-tech-support-scams-2ebf91bd-f94c-2a8a-e541-f5c800d18435

    This is a more indept article about this type of scam, with screenshots what you can do: https://substack.com/home/post/p-215146922

    Note: This is a non-Microsoft website. The page appears to be providing accurate, safe information. Watch out for ads on the site that may advertise products frequently classified as a PUP (Potentially Unwanted Products). Thoroughly research any product advertised on the site before you decide to download and install it.

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